Description
Crusty Italian Bread is a delightful baking project that brings the warm, inviting aroma of an Italian bakery right into your kitchen. With its golden, crackling crust and soft, airy interior, this homemade bread is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, every bite offers a comforting blend of flavor and texture that will elevate any meal. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this rustic loaf that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (100°F to 110°F)
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it rest for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about an hour).
- Punch down the dough gently, shape it into a round loaf, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg